WFC News

A veteran Philadelphia firefighter has died after suffering a medical emergency while on duty with the engine company assigned to Philadelphia International Airport.
Firefighter Michael Bernstein died at the hospital around 1:50 Wednesday morning after being found unresponsive while on duty at Engine 78, "C" Platoon at PHL, the fire department and fire union said. - PUB DATE: 3/21/2019 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: NBC 10 Philadelphia

State Reps. Ryan Berman, Brandt Iden and Jeff Yaroch have introduced a plan to stiffen penalties for criminals who threaten or carry out targeted attacks on first responders and corrections officers in Michigan.
Berman, who serves as a reserve police officer, said attacks on law enforcement officers and other first responders have increased over the past few years, creating a need for stronger protections. - PUB DATE: 3/21/2019 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: Fox 47 News

VIDEO: First responders are on the front line of New Hampshire's drug epidemic every day, and the trauma they experience dealing with the victims often follows them home.
Manchester police, firefighters and EMTs described the consequences of compassion fatigue Tuesday to U.S. Sen. Maggie Hassan.
"Certainly in my 35 years on the job, I've never seen this much death," Manchester Fire Chief Dan Goonan said. - PUB DATE: 3/21/2019 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: WMUR-TV ABC 9

A first responders' advocacy group is pushing for a new benefit for retired firefighters and rescue squad workers — one currently enjoyed by retired police officers — but municipal officials across the state, including in Elizabeth City, warn it will be hard to pay for.
The Parity For First Responders legislation, House Bill 278, and its companion bill in the Senate, Senate Bill 179, would grant a separation allowance to firefighters and emergency medical services personnel who retire with 30 years of service. - PUB DATE: 3/21/2019 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: DailyAdvance.com